St. Thomas the Apostle

Feast Day: July 3

“My Lord and my God!” – John 20:28

Apostle of Faith and Mission

St. Thomas the Apostle, often remembered as “Doubting Thomas,” is honored for his journey from doubt to profound faith and for his missionary zeal in spreading the Gospel far beyond the Roman Empire. His feast day, celebrated on July 3, commemorates his unwavering witness to Christ and his ultimate sacrifice as a martyr.

A Disciple Who Sought the Truth

Thomas was one of the original Twelve Apostles, faithfully following Jesus throughout His ministry. He is best known for his reaction after the Resurrection, when he initially refused to believe the other apostles' testimony that Christ had risen.

When Jesus appeared to Thomas, inviting him to touch His wounds, Thomas responded with one of the greatest professions of faith in the Gospels: “My Lord and my God.” (John 20:28). This moment not only confirmed Thomas’s belief but also serves as a powerful affirmation of the divinity of Christ for all generations.

Missionary to the East

After Pentecost, Thomas carried the Gospel beyond the boundaries of the Roman world. Ancient tradition holds that he traveled to India, where he preached the Good News, established Christian communities, and converted many to the faith.

The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in India traces its roots directly to the missionary efforts of St. Thomas, who is still deeply venerated there as the “Apostle of India.”

Martyr for Christ

Thomas’s bold preaching eventually led to his martyrdom. He was speared to death, likely near Mylapore, India, for refusing to stop proclaiming Christ. His relics are believed to be preserved in both India and later transferred in part to Ortona, Italy.

Patron of Builders and the Faithful Who Seek Truth

St. Thomas is the patron saint of builders, architects, and construction workers, symbolizing both his work in building the early Church and the strength of his faith. He is also a patron for those who wrestle with doubt, those seeking truth, and those longing for deeper faith.

A Witness to Faith Overcoming Doubt

St. Thomas’s life reminds the faithful that honest doubt can lead to deeper faith when it is met with the truth of Christ. His journey from doubt to belief encourages all who struggle in faith to seek the Lord with sincerity and to proclaim, like Thomas, “My Lord and my God.”

St. Thomas the Apostle, pray for us!